Daniel Akaka: “once again, I support the Children's Health Insurance Program Reauthorization Act. I am frustrated that the President…”

“once again, I support the Children's Health Insurance Program Reauthorization Act. I am frustrated that the President continues to oppose legislation that will expand access to health care for our Nation's children. The President's veto of the previous bill shows that this administration fails to understand the domestic needs of our country. The Children's Health Insurance Program is a successful program that has improved the quality of life for our Nation's children. Since its enactment in 1997, the number of uninsured children have been reduced by one-third, according to the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities. The Children's Health Insurance Program Reauthorization Act will preserve access to health care for the 6.6 million children currently enrolled in the Children's Health Insurance Program. In addition, this bill expands access for approximately 4 million more children. Approximately 16,000 children in Hawaii lack health insurance. I am proud that my home State of Hawaii has continued to develop innovative programs to help provide access to health care for children. This year, the Hawaii State Legislature established the Keiki Care program, a public-private partnership intended to ensure that every child in Hawaii has access to health care. This administration is being irresponsible by denying resources to states for children's health care. Without access to insurance, children cannot learn, be active, and grow into healthy adults.”